Merfyn Frych

Merfyn Frych ("Merfyn the Freckled"), also known as Merfyn ap Gwriad and Merfyn Camwri, ruled Gwynedd from approximately 825 to 844. He was the first king of Gwynedd not descended from King Cunedda through a male line. His reign followed a period of dynastic strife between rivals Cynan and Hywel, identified as sons of Rhodri Molwynog. Merfyn's significance lies in founding the Merfynion dynasty, which included his son Rhodri Mawr (Rhodri the Great). The Annales Cambriae record his death in 844, coinciding with a battle at Cetyll, though details remain unclear.

During his reign, Gwynedd faced challenges from external forces, including campaigns by Coenwulf of Mercia and Ecgberht of Wessex. Merfyn married Nest, daughter or sister of King Cadell ap Brochfael of Powys, strengthening alliances with the Royal House of Gwertherion. His father, Gwriad, had unclear origins, with theories suggesting connections to "Manaw," possibly referring to locations in Ireland, Galloway, or northern Britain. Merfyn's name appears in literary sources like the Red Book of Hergest and the Historia Brittonum, though these references are not definitive historical records.

Merfyn had three known children: Rhodri Mawr, Gwriad ap Merfyn, and Anarawd ap Merfyn. His legacy is marked by stabilizing Gwynedd after a turbulent period and establishing a dynasty that played a central role in Welsh politics for centuries.